Philosophical Ethics

Running head : PHILOSOPHICAL ETHICS

Introduction

Kant 's position on self killing is somewhat controversial as it is open to various interpretations by different scholars . His use of concepts like categorical imperative , rational thought and dignity of the personhood present a prima facie case against suicide and euthanasia (Kant 59 , 1964 . Any action that emanated from rational thought and was intended to promote moral good is according to Kant , ethical . Persons seeking to end their lives because of unbearable suffering are contemplating amoral actions since they are motivated to treat the self

as a means to an end rather than an end in itself . A detailed analysis of Kant 's philosophy shows that he while he was against suicide and euthanasia , he would have permitted it in certain instances provided the act stemmed from rational thought and was for the moral good of society

Categorical imperative demands that mankind abides by the moral standards set by society (Kant 66 , 1964 . Any behavior that goes contrary to these social norms is therefore immoral and wrong . The sanctity of life cannot be treated as something to be dispensed with as though it were a commodity traded on the open market . The finality of death makes it all the more precious and life should be safeguarded at all times and preserved by any means possible . Thus , the golden rule that states man should not kill should be sufficient reason to prohibit suicide or euthanasia . Kant does not provide an exception for terminally ill persons...